Jordan North has officially started the ‘toughest challenge of his life’ and will attempt to row 100 miles of canals between London and Burnley.

The Radio 1 presenter set off this morning (28 February) and told listeners that he was “feeling nervous” about the “mammoth” task ahead of him

Speaking to Greg James on the breakfast show, he said: “I am so nervous… I was fine 20 minutes ago and just wanted to get in the boat. Now I am feeling the pressure.

“This has been months in the making and now we are just minutes away from starting this mammoth challenge.”

Lancashire Telegraph: Burnley's Jordan North, training for his 100 mile rowing challenge for Red Nose Day (Photo: BBC)Burnley's Jordan North, training for his 100 mile rowing challenge for Red Nose Day (Photo: BBC)

The Radio 1 team even organised for a military band to give Jordan a "proper" send off by playing the bagpipes.

Jordan said: “The bagpipes were a bit extra, but also fantastic.

“I feel like my dad would be proud. I was one of his only sons who didn’t join the army so this is the next best thing.

“I hope I can do it and don’t let you down. Any way you can send your love and support me that would be fantastic.

“This next week’s probably going to be the toughest thing I’ve ever done in my life.”

Jordan’s mum, Wendy, also offered some words of support.

Speaking on the radio, she said: “It’s Wendy here, Queen of the north, Jordan’s mum.

“You’ve risen through the ranks of radio, you’ve conquered the castle and most importantly you have perfected the picky tea.

“Now it’s time for your biggest challenge yet - you’re rowing home, back to good old Burnley, your happy place.”

Jordan started off strong, setting off at around 8:15am – but the success didn’t last long as he “stopped for a wee” just 10 minutes in.

Speaking on The BBC Radio 1 Instagram story, Jordan said: “10 minutes in and I’m dying for a wee. Got a nappy?”

The next story showed Jordan out of the boat and running into woodland, with the caption: “Update: He’s stopped for a wee”.

Lancashire Telegraph: Jordan North 'stopped for a wee' 10 minutes into Comic Relief rowing challenge(Photo: Instagram/@bbcradio1)Jordan North 'stopped for a wee' 10 minutes into Comic Relief rowing challenge(Photo: Instagram/@bbcradio1)

It won't be one continuous route for Jordan, he'll be completing different legs over the course of the week and rowing 100 miles in total.

Fans and followers will be updated about his progress each morning at 8:15 on the Radio 1 Breakfast Show.

You can make a donation by visiting the Comic Relief website: https://www.comicrelief.com/rednoseday/challenges/radio-one